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Gem of Tmtlifulness ; 

OB, 

THE LOST BABY. 


BY 


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MRS. MADELINE LESLIE. 


“Lying lips are an abomination unto the Lord: but they 
that deal truly are his delight. — Proverbs 12: 22, 


BOSTON: 


ANDREW F. GRAVES 

20 CORNHILL. 





Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1872, 
By a. R. baker, D.D. 

in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. 


J. D. Flagg & Co, 

51 Water and 57 Congress Sts. 
B osto^ , 


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LIST 


OF 


SPARKLING GE 

FOR YOUTH. 


SERIES FOR GIRLS. 


VOL. I. 

GEM OF COURTESY. 

« 

II. 

GEM OF COURAGE. 

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III. 

GEM OF FAITHFULNESS. 

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IV. 

GEM OF NEATNESS. 

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V. 

GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

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VI. 

gem of earnestness. 


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LIST 


OP 

SPARKLING GEMS 


FOE YOUTH. 

»o* ■ ■ 


SERIES FOR BOYS. 


VoL. I. GEM OF UPRIGHTNESS. 

“ II. GEM OF SELF-DENIAL. 

« III. GEM OF PERSEVERANCE. 
« IV. GEM OF TEMPERANCE. 

“ V. GEM OF SELF-CONTROL. 

» VI. GEM OF GENEROSITY. 




6 



DEDICA TION. 


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MT DEAR LITTLE HARRY t 

I HAVE DEDICATED THESE SMALL VOLUMES TO YOU, 
PRAYING THAT THE GeMS OF WHICH THEY TREAT, MAY 
ADORN YOUR CROWN IN THE CORONATION DAY OF ChRIST^S 
BELOVED, 

Your affection ate grandmother, : 

The Author, 





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PREFACE 


The author of these volumes recently attended the 
commencement of a seminary, in which sparkling 
crowns were placed on the heads of such of the gradu- 
ates as had been distinguished for diligence, faithful- 
ness, neatness and other virtues. Being very much 
pleased with the design, I have appropriated the idea 
in these small volumes. 

On the illuminated title page, the teacher and pupils 
appear. He holds up to their view a sparkling gem, 
just taken from his cabinet. We may imagine him 
explaining to them, that these precious stones are used 
in the Bible as emblems of the different graces which 
adorn the character of Christians, even as God says : 
these graces “ shall be as the stones of a crown,” put 
upon their heads. 


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CONTENTS 


CHAPTER I. 

Page. 

Baby Blanche,. 11 

CHAPTER II. 

The Anxious^Seakch, 19 

CHAPTER III. 

The Police-man, 27 

CHAPTER IV. 

Mary’s Confession, 36 

CHAPTER V. 

Mary’s Trouble, 42 

CHAPTER VI. 

Delia’s Bad Habits,* 61 

CHAPTER VII. 

Mamma’s Teachings, 60 


X 


CONTENTS 


CHAPTER VIII. 

Blowing Bubbles, 66 

CHAPTER IX. 

Unexpected Help, 77 

CHAPTER X. 

The Little Stranger, 84 

CHAPTER XL 

Mart’s Jot, 93 


CHAPTER XII. * 


Reward op Truth 


101 


GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS 


CHAPTER I. 

BABY BLANCHE. 

‘‘1 WONDER why baby isn’t look- 
ing out of the window/’ said Delia 
Gibbs to her mamma, as they came 
in sight of their home. Mary must 
be giving her some supper up stairs.” 

Probably, my dear.” 

Mrs. Gibbs had been absent from 
the house nearly four hours. She had 
been attending a meeting of mothers ; 
and her thoughts still dwelt on the 
subjects discussed there. Beside De- 
lia whom she had taken with her, 
11 


12 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

there was a little girl named Blanche, 
not quite two years old, left in the 
care of her nurse Mary. 

It had become quite a custom with 
Mary when the hour approached for 
her mistress to return, to set the little 
Miss on a chair by the front window. 
Delia often ran forward to the turn in 
the street, from which she could see 
the house, expecting to find the little 
face flattening itself against the pane 
of glass, and then light up as it recog- 
nized her. 

But on this occasion no one was in 
sight. Mrs. Gibbs and her daughter 
went at once to the nursery ; but it 
was empty. On the floor lay a great 
rag-baby with a hole punched in its 
cheek, and the bran with which it was 
stuffed, slowly oozing out. 


BABY BLANCHE. 


13 


“ I wonder where Blanche is/’ cried 
Delia, growing impatient. 

Kun to the kitchen, and tell Mary 
to bring baby up,” said mamma, 
quietly removing her bonnet. 

Delia’s voice was heard all the way 
down stairs, calling : 

Baby ! baby Blanche ! Sister’s 
come ! Where are you ? ” 

Then the tone suddenly changed, 
and the little feet came flying up 
again, while Delia cried, Oh ! o — oh ! 
Come, mamma, Mary’s crjdng, and 
when I asked her where baby was, 
she didn’t say a word.” 

Mrs. Gibbs, tossing upon the bed 
the shawl she was carefully folding, 
hastened below. She was not really 
alarmed 5 and yet her heart beat fast 
with a nameless anxiety. 


14 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


The kitchen door was open ; and 
Mary’s voice could be distinctly heard 
moaning as if in pain. 

What is the matter ? ” inquired 
her mistress, her face turning pale, 
Where is Blanche ? ” 

Mary’s grief burst forth afresh at 
this question. She wrung her hands, 
tears pouring down her cheeks. 

Tell me instantly, Mary. Has 
anything happened ? You surely 
know where baby is.” 

Oh, ma’am ! I’ll tell ye the truth ! 
I can’t tell ye a lie, ma’am, and ye 
so kind to me. Baby’s lost; and I’ll 
never be happy again. No, not till 
the last hour of me life.” 

Where is Cook ? ” 

The lady’s voice sounded cold and 
harsh. She was bravely trying to 


BABY BLANCHE. 


15 


control herself, so as to find out the 
facts in the case ; but her agonized 
heart seemed to be shut up in a vice, 
so painfully did it throb. 

Cook’s gone to the Station, 
ma’am.” 

What station ? ” 

Oh, ma’am ! where would she go 
but to the p’lice Station to hunt for 
baby?” 

Tell me where you saw Blanche 
last.” 

Mary buried her face in her hands, 
and burst into a loud wail, rocking 
herself back and forth in her distress. 
Presently she screamed out : 

Sure, ma’am. I’ll tell ye the truth. 
I’d be afraid to lave ye with a sin on 
me conscience ; — and sure when ye 
know, ye’U not be kaping me.” 


16 GEM OP TRUTHFULNESS. 

Oh, mamma ! what is the mat- 
ter ? ’’ cried Delia, as her mother fell, 
faint and trembling against the table. 

Och ! what will I do ! IVe kilt 
her entirely ; and she the best mis- 
tress in the world.’’ 

Tell me at once. You torture 
me,” gasped the poor mother, sinking 
into a chair. 

Water, — Delia.” 

She drank a few swallows, then by 
the force of her will subdued her faint- 
ness, and commanded the terrified 
girl to speak instantly, and tell where 
she saw baby last. “ Every moment 
is precious,” she said. We may be 
losing our chance of finding her.” 

I’ll tell ye the truth, ma’am. In- 
dade I will, if ye laves me in prison 
all me life. My cousin, Pat Maloon 


BABY BLANCHE. 


17 


has come to Ameriky. He has been 
striving to find me ; and this after- 
noon as me bad luck would have it, 
he came to see me, and tell me about 
me friends at home. I was going out 
with baby for a walk as ye tould me ; 
and he said he’d go along with me. 
When we came to the park I put 
Blanche down ; and then we laughed 
to see how cunning she trotted on be- 
fore us. I don’t know how it happen- 
ed, ma’am, no more than a new born 
baby. That’s the truth, ma’^am. On 
me knees I say it’s the truth. Pat 
was walking with me ; and I was ask- 
ing him about auld Ireland, when he 
asks sudden like : 

^ Did ye know, Mary, that Mich- 
ael O’Shane is dead and buried ? ’ 

Poor Mick ! but he was the good 

2 


18 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

son and the good brother. Oh, ma’am ! 
Mick and I were sworn to one another 
and the word struck to me heart.” 


THE ANXIOUS SEARCH. 19 


CHAPTER II. 

THE ANXIOUS SEARCH. 

Mary’s groans were harrowing to 
her mistress, who truly pitied the 
warm-hearted girl ; but she was torn 
with anxiety to know what had be- 
come of Blanche. 

^^I’m sorry indeed for you,” she 
said tenderly. “Did you bring Blanche 
home after that ? ” 

“I’ve never seen her since,” moan- 
ed the girl shaking her head. For a lit- 
tle I was like one beside meself ; and 
when I remembered, there was no ba- 
by in sight, Pat ran one way and I 
the other, and we asked everybody, — 


20 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

I’m telling ye the truth, ma’am ; and 
me heart is sore with me trouble as 
I’m telling it. Oh, ma’am ! it’s a bad 
world to live in, it is ! ” 

You say Cook has gone to the Sta- 
tion House.” 

Yes, ma’am, while I was ready to 
die with terror, up she ran to her 
room for her bonnet : 

‘ I’m going for a p’lice,’ ” she said. 

Mrs. Gibbs knew Cook to be an in- 
telligent, wide awake woman. That 
she had taken the matter in hand was 
the first ray of comfort. The next 
thought was that she would follow 
Nancy and urge a more vigorous 
search for the lost child. But on 
glancing at the clock, she perceived 
that it was within a few minutes of 
the hour, when her husband would ])e 


THE ANXIOUS SEARCH. 


21 


at home ; and he would know exactly 
what measures to adopt. 

Mary’s strained eyes followed her 
every motion while poor Delia sat wip- 
ing her tears with her tiny handker- 
chief. 

Is the table set, Mary?” asked 
her mistress. 

Indeed it is, ma’am ; and the tay 
is ready. Och, ma’am ! It’s the both- 
ering memory, I have to-da}^. Cook 
bid me take the muffins from the oven, 
and put in the other pan of them.” 

On opening the door a cloud of 
smoke rushed out. The muffins were 
burned to a crisp. 

Carry them into the shed and 
throw them into the ash barrel,” said 
Mrs. Gibbs, kindly. You are quite 
excusable for forgetting them. The 


22 GEM OF TKUTHFULNESS. 

smoke will soon pass out of the win- 
dow.’’ 

This kindness quite overcame poor 
nurse, who began to weep again, but 
checked her sobs to ask : 

“ Will the p’lice find baby, ma’am ? ” 
I have great confidence that they 
will find her, nurse ; but she may 
have been injured. We will hope for 
the best, though.” 

There’s papa ! I hear papa’s 
voice ! ” exclaimed Delia. Oh dear ! 
won’t he feel bad ! ” 

Mrs. Gibbs hurried to meet him, 
and in a few words told him what had 
occurred. 

Papa threw upon the hall table a 
package of papers he had brought, 
and merely saying, Keep up your 
courage, wife,” turned to go out. He 


THE ANXIOUS SEARCH. 23 


stopped a minute on the steps to add 
in a husky voice : 

you hear anything, send at 
once to Kand’s apothecary store. He 
keeps open all night. I shall not 
come back until — 

They could hear no more ; but his 
wife well knew what he meant. Un- 
til I find her.’’ Would she ever be 
found ? God in mercy grant it,” 
prayed the distracted mother. 

While she and Delia stood at the 
door looking up and down the street. 
Cook came hurrying home. 

Have you heard anything ? ” 
eagerly inquired mamma, beckoning 
the woman up the front steps. 

I’ve been to the Station. I knew 
it wouldn’t do to wait so I went at 
once. I hope Mary didn’t let my 


24 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

muffins burn. The police-man started 
off immediately ; and Pat went with 
him to show him the place where 
they saw baby last. The chief told 
me there’s no doubt theyTl find her 
soon. I thought Mary would lose her 
senses. She flew round like a wild cat. 

You did exactly the right thing, 
Nancy,” said mamma earnestly. 

Neither Mr. Gibbs, nor I shall forget 
it.” She held out her hand to Cook 
who saw that her eyes were full 
of tears. 

“ Will you delay supper, ma’am ? 
I suppose it’s ready.” 

I couldn’t eat now, Nancy. The 
lady put her hand on her heart, and 
slowly mounted the stairs to her cham- 
ber. How desolate every thing look- 
ed ! Turning the key in the lock she 


THE ANXIOUS SEARCH. 


25 


kneeled by the side of her bed, when 
a child’s voice called : 

Mamma, I can’t stay alone. Please 
let me be with you.” 

Mrs. Gibbs opened the door and 
drew Delia to her side, when she told 
her heavenly Father her sorrow, and 
implored him whose eye sees every 
one of his creatures, to direct the 
steps of those who were searching for 
the dear lost one, and bring her 
home to them in peace. 

Her voice was choked ; but when 
she had laid her petitions Ibefore God, 
her heart was relieved. 

Delia rose when she had finished 
and rushed to the window. It was 
now a few minutes past six, a little 
boy who lived near, was driving his 
hoop before him as he ran home. 


26 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


Only one other foot passenger was in 
sight. A lady was coming down the 
street. 


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‘‘There she is, mamma! A policeman is bringing 
her home.” Page 27 . 


THE POLICE-MAN. 


27 


CHAPTER III. 

THE POLICE-MAN. 

Suddenly Delia jumped up in the 
chair, gazing at a man who had turn- 
ed toward the house, then a joyful 
scream burst from her lips : 

There she is, mamma ! There's 
Blanche ! A police-man is bringing 
her ! Oh, aren’t you glad ! ’’ 

God be praised ! ’’ faltered mam- 
ma, glancing from the window, and 
then hurrying below. Dear little 
one, we w^on’t let you wander from us 
again.” 

Baby's coming ! Baby's found !'' * 
shouted Delia over the basement 


28 GEM OF TRriTHFULNESS. 

stairs, and then for a moment poor 
Mary’s wailing ceased. 

I’ve found your little girl,” said 
the police-man, coming up the steps. 

She’s all safe ! I think she’s 
asleep.” 

Precious baby! ’’murmured mam- 
ma, folding her arms around the dar- 
ling ; but Blanche did not even open 
her eyes. There were tears on her 
cheeks ; and her hands were soiled 
with dust, as though she had fallen 
to the ground ; but her face was calm 
and peaceful. 

Where did you find her?” in- 
quired Cook, who had rushed up from 
the kitchen. 

A few rods from the place where 
her nurse left her. I had a boy named 
Patrick Maloon with me. Just be- 


THE POLICE-MAN. 


29 


yond the seat where Nurse put her 
down, some children were playing 
with an empty baby wagon. They 
saw your little girl fall; and they 
picked her up and put her in. The 
boy says his sister wanted to carry 
the baby home ; but he told her they 
ought to find its mother, and ask leave 
first. They looked all about, but didn’t 
see anybody searching for a babe; 
and they had drawn her the length of 
two streets when I met them. 

I’m a father myself,” added the 
man, smiling, as he saw the mother 
press her baby to her breast. I’m 
glad I found the little girl so soon.” 

^‘1 shall always thank you, sir,” 
Mrs. Gibbs answered. Will you 
give me your name ? ” 

He handed her a card. 


80 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

Shall you pass Rand's store ? " 
she inquired. If so, I wish you would 
call, and leave word for my husband 
that Blanche is found. He went out 
to join the search." 

I’ll find him, and ease his aching 
heart at once, ma’am. Good day to 
you!’’ 

She rose, gave him her hand, and 
tried to utter her thanks again; but 
her voice failed. 

As soon as the man had turned from 
the door, Mary came forward, and 
throwing herself on her knees before 
the sleeping babe, began to kiss its 
hands and bare arms. 

I’m thankful to the Lord, ma’am, 
that he found her for us, — and I’m 
thankful for his help to me,’’ suddenly 
covering her burning face. 


THE POLICE-MAN. 


31 


Come to the nursery, and tell me 
what you mean,^ Nurse.’’ 

Oh ma’am ! Do you remember 
the day when Delia offended ye by 
not spaking the exact truth ? I’ll nev- 
er forget it ; and that ye read from 
the Bible how the Lord hates them 
that have a lying tongue. I made a 
promise to meself then, ma’am, that 
I’d tell the truth forever. I’ll not de- 
ny it, ma’am. I was sorely tempted 
with the fright, and with the ache in 
my heart for poor Michael. She’ll 
never forgive me I said to meself; 
and I couldn’t blame ye either. I’ll 
jist tell her somebody came and took 
her out of the house.” 

Oh, Mary, poor girl ! ” 

‘^I thank the good Lord, ma’am, 
that he hindered me. The minute I 


32 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

heard your voice I declared to me- 
self : ’’ 

“ Mary Kegan, tell the truth to 
your kind mistress, whatever comes 
of it. Will ye forgive me, ma’am, for 
all the sorrow I’ve brought on you ? ” 
Indeed, my poor Mary, I gladly 
forgive you. I am truly pleased that 
you kept to your good resolution. 
By-and-by you must tell me more 
about poor Michael. Did your cousin 
bring you news of your good father 
and mother ? ” 

Yes, ma’am ; but I hear the Mas- 
ter’s voice. Will I let baby sleep ? ” 
^‘1 suppose she is tired with her 
crying. See, there are two tears ! She 
may sleep till I come up. There’s 
papa. I knew he would want to see his 
lost darling.” 


THE POLICE-MAN. 


33 


Mr. Gibbs came in, his face full of 
gratitude, and went quickly toward 
the crib where mamma had laid 
Blanche. He kissed the flushed cheek 
softly, then stood bending over her a 
minute. I have no doubt he too, was 
thanking God for restoring the lost 
one to her home. 

She seems all right,’' he said, 
leaving her. It will do her good to 
sleep awhile. I met the police-man at 
Band’s. I had just run in to inquire 
whether any word had been left for 
me when he opened the door. I asked 
him to stop a minute while I went to 
the desk ; and then I offered him a 
check for fifty dollars. But he said, 
the riiles of the service obliged him 
to refuse. He told me his name and 
where he lives. I wish you would go 
3 


34 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

there, and find out his circumstances. 
We must do something for him.’’ 

He bent down and kissed Delia, 
then taking her hand said : 

^‘Now I should be glad of some 
supper.” 


mart’s confession. 


35 


CHAPTER lY. 
mart’s confession. 

The next morning Mrs. Gibbs no- 
ticed that Mary’s eyes were swollen 
with crying. She seemed bewildered 
about her work, asking questions con- 
cerning it over and over again. At 
length her mistress inquired : 

Do you feel ill, Mary ? If so, 
you had better go to bed. I doubt 
whether you slept much.” 

Me head is racked with the pain, 
ma’am,” said the poor girl, trying to 
control herself ; but I don’t much care 
for the likes of that.” 

Is it sorrow for poor Michael ? ” 


36 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

“ Me cousin Pat came to the door 
this morning, ma’am, before yees was 
up. Pie brought the bit of printing 
he cut from the paper. I’d like to be 
showing it to yees, ma’am. Then 
ye’ll know that I tould the truth when 
I said he was the good son, and the 
good brother. But oh, ma’am ! if 
ye’ll give me lave, I’d like to spake 
to ye intirely. I’ve something on me 
mind, ma’am. I’m a miserable crea- 
ture, ma’am. If ye knew about it, 
ye’d not trust me in the house, to say 
nothing of laving the baby to me 
care.” 

^^I hope it is not so bad as that,” 
said the lady in an encouraging tone. 
^^When we look into our own hearts, we 
find enough of sin there, to make us 
fly to our Saviour for help. He is al- 


Mary’s confession. 


37 


ways ready to hear our cry for for- 
giveness, and for help to bear trouble. 
When baby takes her nap I’ll send 
Delia down to stay with Nancy ; and 
you may bring your mending basket, 
and tell me all about it.” 

Thank you a thousand times, 
ma’am. I’m quite sure I’ll feel easier 
when ye knows all.” 

Mary forced her mind from her 
grief, and began in earnest to clear 
the chambers, and dress the beds as 
usual. She was very neat and thor- 
ough about her work, and had always 
been considered by Mrs. Gibbs an un- 
commonly good servant. 

At eleven o’clock baby showed 
signs of being sleepy. She pulled her 
mamma’s dress, and asked in her lisp- 
ing tones to be taken up. Her mam- 


38 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

ma rung the chamber-bell for Nurse 
to bring up her milk, after which the 
little Miss pointed to her crib and shut 
her eyes in the most cunning manner. 

Nancy was frying crullers in the 
kitchen ; and Delia had been delight- 
ed to receive permission to have on 
her long-sleeved apron and help. Her 
mamma had bought her a tiny rolling- 
pin and board, with which and a piece 
of dough, she often amused herself for 
hours. 

Blanche was scarcely asleep before 
Mary appeared with her basket of 
stockings. 

Taking a chair, she pulled from her 
pocket a slip of newspaper, and pass- 
ed it to her mistress. 

^^Will ye plase, ma’am, read it 
aloud, then I can sinse it better.” 


Mary’s confession. 


39 


We have given the notice of Mich- 
ael O’Shane’s death in,another column. 
His funeral was attended on the Sun- 
day following, when a long procession 
followed him to the grave. Mr. 
O’Shane was a good citizen, and his 
loss will be deeply mourned.” 

I suppose your cousin Pat attend- 
ed his funeral,” remarked the lady, 
giving back the paper. 

Och, no, ma’am ! It’s in an Irish 
paper he found it. Michael was well 
when Pat left home.” 

Mrs. Gibbs sat silent a moment 
waiting for Mary to begin, if she had 
anything to say, and presently the 
girl letting her w^ork drop, and raising 
her apron to her eyes, burst out : 

Oh, ma’am ! It’s in great trouble 
I am ; and all on account of a lie, 


40 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

Sure and I niver would have told a lie, 
if I had known what difficulty I'd 
have had along with it. May I tell 
ye, ma’am, all about it ? ” 

Certainly, Mary, if it will relieve 
you.” 

I’m twenty years old,” began 
Mary, and me father’s a small farmer, 
wuth cows, and horses of his own. I 
had a cousin, Thomas Regan, who liv- 
ed with us, and minded the sheep. I 
used often to walk to the pasture 
where he was staying with the sheep 
to carry his dinner. 

It’s the truth, ma’am, that I niver 
once thought of Thomas as a lover ; 
but he. thought of it, and one day ask- 
ed me to be his wife. It came sudden 
to me, and when he urged me I said, 
yes. I wasn’t happy after that ; and 


Mary’s confession. 


41 


I lost my health ; but I wouldn’t tell 
what ailed me. You see, Thomas bid 
me not tell my parents till he was 
ready to take me away. My father 
was a good man, and could not abide 
fairs, nor drinking, nor lazy fellows 
lounging about, nor girls decked in 
flying ribbons. I was his only child, 
and he was strict with me, — stricter 
than I liked. One day Thomas went 
to the fair against me father’s wishes. 
He urged me to go with him. My 
mother heard him pleading, and me 
refusing. I staid at home but he 
went, and got so drunk that he quar- 
relled and almost killed one of his 
comrades. When he came out of pris- 
on I told him that I would niver mar- 
ry him. He was angry and said he 
would be revenged.” 


42 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


CHAPTER V. 

Mary’s trouble. 

^Iary sighed repeatedly, and seem- 
ed lost in thought. At last her mis- 
tress said : 

So far I think your conduct all 
right and proper.” 

Did I tell you, ma’am,” asked 
Mary, that my father bid Thomas go 
away ? He did so ; and that made it 
worse. I had an aunt living at Derry ; 
and I got leave to go and see her. 
Michael O’Shane knew my aunt well. 
He used to come there every day. I 
did not think he came to see me. 
Michael’s father owned a cabin in our 


Mary’s trouble. 


43 


town ; but Mick wanted to raise him- 
self. He learned the trade of carpen- 
ter, and made good wages at it. He 
was a sober, steady man, laying up 
his money instead of spending it at 
fairs. My aunt told me one day that 
the Derry girls all liked Mick. ^ Is he 
going to marry anybody,’ I asked ? ^ I 
think he will,’ she said, laughing. 

“ The next Sunday I learned what 
she meant. Michael met me on my 
way to church, and put a nosegay into 
my hand. ^ I want to talk with you, 
may I,’ he said. ^ Yes, of course you 
may,’ I answered. 

Then he told me he wanted a 
home ; and there was enough laid up 
in the bank to buy him a house ; and 
would I go and live with him. It was 
very different this time, ma’am. When 


44 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

I said yes to Thomas, I was scared 
like ; and I did it because he urged 
me so. But now when Michael look- 
ed into my eyes my heart said, yes. 

I made a long visit to me aunt ; 
but me father and mother came to 
Derry, and gave Mick their hand on 
the bargain, and everybody was hap- 

py- 

Mick bought a house ; and me 
father agreed to put everything in it. 
Me mother had chests of linen all 
made up for me. I thought nothing 
could hinder me from being happy. 

One day Mick came to see me ; 
but instead of talking he sat gazing in 
me face. ^I’ve heard a bad story,’ 
he said at last. ^ I want you to tell 
me if there’s truth in it.’ 

^ I will, Mick,’ says I. 


Mary’s trouble. 


45 


^ Yesterday,’ he began, ‘ I met 
Thomas Regan. He was talking to 
some drunken men about my wife ; 
yes, about you, Mary. He says you 
promised to marry him ; and he shall 
keep you to your word. He says 
many things that I won’t repeat to 
you. Did you ever love him, Mary ? ’ 
^ No, I never did.’ I screamed 
out the words, and me face burned 
like fire. 

^ And you never promised to mar- 
ry him ? ’ 

Oh ! oh ! groaned the poor girl, 
if I hadn’t told a lie then ! Oh ! oh ! 
dear. How could I? ” 

What did you tell him. Nurse ? ” 
said no, I never had. I said 
that he had rough ways, which was 
quite true. I said that until Mick 


46 GEM OP TRUTHFULNESS. 


asked me I never had wanted to be 
married, which was true. I said 
Thomas was a lazy, drunken fellow ; 
and I wouldn't marry him if I never 
married till my dying day. I grew 
so angry that Mick had to soothe me." 

^ That is enough for me, Mary,’ 
he said. ‘ You have given me your 
word. I am sure you always speak 
the truth.’ 

Oh, how that cut me ! That 
dreadful lie ! Why did not I tell him 
all ? And now he’s dead ; and I never 
can confess it to him. Oh, Mick ! 
Mick ! ’’ 

It is sad indeed,’’ said Mrs. Gibbs. 

A lie is always dangerous, as well as 
sinful.” 

After that,’’ added Mary, I had 
no peace. I met Thomas twice in the 


MARY S TROUBLE. 


47 


street ; but I wouldn’t speak to him. 
When he said, sneering, ^ I shall hold 
you to your promise, Mary,’ T grew 
hot and angry ; but I wouldn’t let him 
see it. At last Thomas met Mick, 
and being drunk at the time, he hit 
Mick on the head, and made him 
senseless. I was almost wild. I told 
meself that it was the lie which had 
done it. I refused to marry Mick, 
when he and my parents urged me. 
I said Thomas would kill him, and 
then I knew me lie would be on me 
forever. Oh ! oh, ma’am ! When I 
heard ye talking to Delia, how it all 
came over me what a wicked heart 
mine is ; and how the Lord has been 
angry with me ever since that day. 

The trouble in me heart made me 
that ill, me mother thought I would 


48 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

die. I said it was me fear of Thomas ; 
and what he would do to Mick ; and 
at last I got leave to come to Amer- 
iky ; and then when Mick had sold 
his house he was coming after me ; 
and we, to be married here. Now he’s 
cold in his grave ; and I’ll never see 
him more. Oh, the purty boy ! the 
good boy ! Will ye niver spake a lov- 
ing word to your poor sorrowing 
Mary ? It was the thought of me lie, 
ma’am, — that just came to me when 
Pat tould me the bad news. I told 
meself, ^ God knows ye deserve it, 
Mary, ye’re a lying, desaving girl.’ 
But oh, ma’am, if I only could have 
tould him before he died, I’d have 
been contint.” 

Poor, Mary’s tears had flowed till 
their fountain was dry. Her swollen 


Mary’s trouble. 


49 


eyes gazed with a piteous expression 
into her mistress’s face as though 
she would glean comfort if she could. 

Your’s is a sad story, my poor 
girl,” said the lady ; but there is 
peace even for you. Have you for- 
gotten what our Saviour says : 

“ ^ Come unto me all ye that labor 
and are heavy laden, and I will give 
you rest.’ If you are really and truly 
sorry for your sin, go to Christ and 
tell him so. His arms are outstretch- 
ed toward all poor, penitent sinners. 
He will forgive, and comfort your 
poor heart.” 

Oh, ma’am, if I only dared go to 
him ! I tried to pray last night ; — but 
that lie rose up in my face.” 

“If you had never sinned, Mary, 
you would have no need of a Saviour. 
4 


50 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

It was for just such sinners as you 
and I that Christ, our blessed Lord, 
died on the cross. He offers to take 
your sins. It will grieve him if you 
refuse.” 

Mary caught her handkerchief 
from her eyes and stared at her mis- 
tress as though she would fix the last 
words in her mind; then she rose 
from her seat, took her basket of un- 
mended stockings, and was about to 
leave the room : 

I shall not need you till dinner,” 
said the lady kindly. Then she lifted 
up her heart in prayer to God that 
this poor burdened soul might find 
rest in his love. 


Delia’s bad habits. 


51 


CHAPTER YI. 

Delia’s bad habits. 

Delia Gibbs was in the main a 
very good girl ; but she had two 
faults, about which her mamma felt 
anxious, and which she prayed God 
to help her child to correct. 

One fault was, that she loved to 
tell tales from one to another of the 
family, what was said by each ; and the 
other, which was far worse, was, that 
she did not always speak the exact 
truth. Her first habit often made 
trouble ; for instance, sometimes her 
papa remarked upon the food at table. 

This soup is not well seasoned ; ” or 


52 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

Nancy’s pudding is very strong of 
lemon.” He did not intend to have 
this repeated. . He knew his wife 
would give Nancy a hint at the right 
time. But little busy-body, as her 
father, when he was annoyed, some- 
times called her, treasured up the 
words, and ran the first opportunity 
to the kitchen to tell Nancy. 

One day she carried the following 
message from the dining-room : 

My papa says the meat is done to 
chips ; and he says too, that the pie 
isn’t half baked. He wants you to 
attend to your work better.” 

Did he send you here to say 
that ? ” asked Nancy, growing angry. 

Yes, he did, — no, he didn’t send 
me ; but I thought you’d want to 
know.” 


Delia’s bad habits. 


53 


Now^ the truth was, that the oven 
to the range was out of order. Nancy 
had informed her mistress of the fact ; 
and she had sent to the man to come 
and mend it. In the meantime the 
lady said, we must do as well as we 
can.” If Nancy shut the draft, every 
thing burned, if she left it open noth- 
ing would cook. She had been very 
patient with it all the morning, open- 
ing and shutting continually, secretly 
resolved to go herself, at once, and 
bring the stove man back with her. 

Now to have her master find fault 
with her was a little more than she 
could endure. When Delia, having 
delivered the message, had gone to 
mamma’s chamber. Cook stood still 
in the middle of the kitchen, thinking. 
Presently she said aloud : 


54 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

didn’t like Mrs. Gibbs so well, 
I’d give notice before I’m an hour 
older. ^ Meat done to chips.’ ^ Wish- 
ed I’d do my work better.’ Hem, 
some people are never satisfied, do 
what you will. There, I know what 
I’ll do. I’ll just go to Mrs. Gibbs and 
ask her what it means. I’ll go this 
minute.” 

The lady was sitting in her room 
with baby in her lap. She was try- 
ing to fit a tiny^pron to Blanche’s 
fat waist, and was telling a story 
about the old woman who lived in 
a shoe,” to keep the little Miss quiet. 

It was such a pretty home scene 
that Nancy, as she stood at the door 
looking on, felt the angry blood die 
out of her cheeks. 

There’s Nancy, good Nancy, come 


DELIA S BAD HABITS. 


55 


to see us, Blanche ! Delia take your 
dolly out of the chair, so Nancy can 
sit down. Do you think this pattern 
a pretty one? I can scarcely tell, 
though, how it will look, baby squirms 
about so.'' 

It will be easy to do up," said the 
practical woman. 

^^Has the man come about the 
stove yet, Nancy ? " 

No, ma'am ; and that's what I 
came up about. I think I'd better 
leave my dishes, and some ironing 
I've got about,^nd go for the man, 
for as to cooking with that oven I've 
stood it as long as I can." 

It is a real trial, I know. Cook." 

'Tisn't that I care for, ma’am ; 
nor the trouble it is to open and shut 
the doors every five minutes. I expect 


56 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

troubles* as long as Vm in this world. 
It’s the message Mr. Gibbs sent down 
to the kitchen that worries me.” 

What message ? ” inquired the 
lady with a look of surprise. 

Delia can tell you, ma’am, she 
brought it. I must say if I’d got such 
a message from some folks I should 
have made my company scarce.” 

Delia, come here,” said her mam- 
ma in her gravest tone. 

The little girl hung her head, evi- 
dently much confused. 

Tell me, my deS', the very words 
of the message you carried to Nancy. 
I didn’t hear any.” 

I told her the meat was done to 
chips.” 

Anything else ? ” 

Delia hesitated, but presently said : 


Delia’s bad habits. 


67 


Yes, mamma, I said the pie wasn’t 
done right.” 

Was that all ? ” 

Yes, mamma.” 

Delia what are you saying?” 
cried Cook angrily. ^^You told me 
your papa sent me word that the 
meat and the pie were wrong ; and 
that he wanted me to attend to my 
work better.” 

Did your papa say that ? ” asked 
mamma very softly. 

I thought he did.” 

Stop, Delia, you are making it 
worse. Go into your room and stay 
by yourself till I come to you. Nancy j 
I thank you for coming to me, though 
you have told me that which giieves 
me to the heart. Now I will tell you 
exactly what was said. 


58 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

‘‘ I told Mr. Gibbs the man had not 
come, and I asked him if he couldn’t 
spare time to go round that way, and 
send him at once. He hesitated a 
minute and then he said : 

^ Well, Nancy is such a good girl, 
and never complains until it is abso- 
lutely necessary, I’ll go.’ The meat 
and the pie were spoken of in connec- 
tion with the oven and not the slight- 
est blame was attached to you.” 

At this moment there was a long, 
loud jingle of the lower bell. 

The man has come about the 
stove,” said Nurse running up from 
her dinner. 

Wait one minute. Cook,” said her 
mistress. I want you to make me 
one promise. The next time any- 
thing troubles you, come to me, as 


Delia’s bad habits. 


59 


you have to-day. You may depend 
upon it if I have any fault to find, I 
shall tell you, and not send it through 
any third person.” 

I’m not afraid of you’re finding 
too much fault,” said Nancy, trying 
to laugh, and then she ran from 
the room. 


60 GEM OF truthfulness. 


CHAPTER VII 
mamma’s teachings. 

Nurse, bring me Blanche’s hat 
and white sack,” said mamma. You 
may take her out for an hour.” 

When they had gone, mamma did 
not move for a few minutes. She sat 
looking very, very sad. Then she 
rose and went to Delia’s room. 

The little girl was sitting bolt up- 
right in a chair, half crying. The 
moment she saw her mother she be- 
gan : 

didn’t mean to, mamma. I 
thought papa said so.” 

Delia,” said the lady, in a grieved 


mamma’s teachings. 


61 


voice, do you know who is in this 
room, looking right into your heart ? ” 

Yes, mamma, God is here.” 

And dare you tell a lie, knowing 
that he can hear every word you 
speak ? ” 

I don’t want him to hear me,” 
faltered the child, beginning to sob. 

But he does, we can never say a 
word, nor think one thought, but he 
knows it.” 

want to tell some things, and 
not have anybody hear.” 

Do you know what would happen, 
Delia, if God, your kind Father should 
go away and leave you for a min- 
ute ? ” 

No, mamma.” 

Put your finger on your pulse. 
Do you feel it beat? Your heart 


62 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

beats too^ and carries the blood which 
keeps you alive, all over your body. 
It is God, who makes your pulses 
beat. If he should leave you for any 
length of time, they would stop, and 
you would die. We should have to 
carry your body away and bury it in 
the ground. Will you ask God to 
leave you by yourself — to let you 
talk and he not hear ? ’’ 

Oh, no, mamma ! I want him to 
stay, and take care of me.” 

Do you think he can love little 
girls, who disobey his commands ? ” 
No, mamma ; but I’m going to 
be a good girl now. I’m sorry I told 
that. I’ll never do so again.” 

‘^You must ask your Saviour to 
help you be good. He wants you to 
be a truthful child; you must ask 


mat^ima’s teachings. 


63 


him to make you so. God hates liars, 
and he has pronounced a fearful pun- 
ishment upon them. He says, ^ Lying 
lips are an abomination *to the Lord ; 
but they that deal truly are his de- 
light.’ ” 

^^Will you ask God to make me 
good, mamma ? ” 

Yes, my dear child; but I want 
you to confess your sin to him.” 

Delia leaned against her mother, 
and hiding her eyes on her shoulder, 
whispered : 

I’m sorry, God, that I told Nancy 
that. I’m sorry I said lies. Please 
keep me good, and please stay by me 
all the time, so my pulse won’t stop 
beating.” 

Now,” said mamma, there is 
one thing more I want to talk with 


64 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

you about. How should you like to 
stay here in this room by yourself, 
and have Nurse bring your breakfast 
and dinner oft a tray, and speak to no 
one from morning till night ? 

I wouldn’t like it at all, mamma ; 
I hope you won’t make me do it.” 
Delia clung in terror to her mamma’s 
arm. 

I hope not indeed, my dear ; but 
I must in some way break up your 
habit of running from me to Nancy, 
or from Nancy to Nurse, and repeat- 
ing what is said. Even if you repeat 
exactly what is true, it is a very bad 
habit. If your father and I cannot 
talk when you are present without 
you’re running to tell somebody what 
we say, I shall certainly send you 
from the room. Nancy felt very 


mamma’s teachings. 


65 


badly when you told her, we talked 
about the food. If there is anything 
to tell her I am the one.” 

But you didn’t say it was naugh- 
ty when I told her how much papa 
liked her Queen’s pudding. You 
laughed as if you were glad.” 

That was different, Delia. You 
can see yourself that it was unlike 
you’re telling her that the meat was 
done to chips. Your conscience told 
you it was not right, and that was 
the reason you did not come rushing 
to my chamber as you did before and 
repeat what you had said. When 
your naughty heart whispers to you 
not to tell mamma, then you may 
know something is wrong.” 


66 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


CHAPTER Vm. 

BLOWING BUBBLES. 

Please, mamma,” begged Delia 
a few weeks later, may I play with 
my new pipe ? I can make splendid 
soap bubbles with it.” 

Yes, dear, put on your long sleev- 
ed apron. Nurse will make some 
suds for you when she comes up with 
Blanche. You must be careful, 
though, not to slop the water about.” 

I can’t find my apron, mamma.” 

Where did you leave it last ? Try 
to recollect.” 

Oh, I guess I left it in the kitch- 
en.” She ran below, but presently 


BLOWING BUBBLES. 


67 


came back again with an unpleasant 
face. 

Nancy's real cross/' she exclaim- 
ed. She's gone and thrown my apron 
right into a pail of dirty water in the 
shed. I should think she'd be asham- 
ed to act so." 

“ How do you know she threw it 
there, my child ? " 

Because I asked her, and she 
said, real angry : 

Yes, of course I did.' 

I'm afraid you spoke unkindly to 
Nancy. Tell me the truth, Delia." 

No, mamma, I didn’t." 

The door which had been ajar, 
was pushed open, and Nancy entered 
the room. Her face was tied up in 
a handkerchief, and she looked almost 
sick. 


68 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

Why, Cook, what is the matter?” 
inquired her mistress kindly. 

One of my old turns of ague, 
ma’am ; but I didn’t come up about 
that. I came up because of a promise 
I once made to tell when I was a bit 
worried about anything. You see, 
ma’am, I scarcely got a wink of sleep 
last night, my tooth grumbled so ; and 
I got up rather cross, I acknowledge. 
Delia left her apron on the back of a 
chair. I told her to take it away half 
a dozen times ; but she doesn’t like to 
mind me, say what I will. So this 
morning as I was pouring out some 
molasses from the jug, it slipped and 
a lot of it went on to the apron. 

I threw it into a pail of clean 
suds intending when the molasses 
had soaked out to wash it; and just 


BLOWING BUBBLES. 


69 


then Delia came running down to 
look for it.” 

^ Where’s my apron, Nancy ? ’ she 
asked. 

^ In a pail in the shed.’ She ran 
out there, and came back very angry. 

^ You old, ugly girl,’ she said. 
‘ Did you put my apron in that dirty 
water ? ’ 

^ Of course I did.’ 

^ I’ll go right up and tell mamma. 
She’ll send you off right away.’ 

I’ll confess, ma’am, that I wasn’t 
very pleasant about the apron, ’cause 
I’ve told her so many times to carry 
it away.” 

Thank you for coming to me, 
Nancy. I’m sorry my daughter has 
hurt your feelings by speaking in 
such an improper manner ; but she 


70 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


has not hurt you nearly as much as 
she has hurt herself. Now what can 
I do for your face ? ” 

It’s beginning to swell, ma’am, so 
I think it will be better soon.” 

Nancy turned to leave the room 
when her mistress said, Wait one 
minute. I’ll get a piece of soft flannel 
and pour some chloroform liniment 
on it. I wish you had come to me in 
the night.” 

Mrs. Gibbs presently returned to 
her seat and resumed her sewing. 

What apron shall I put on ? ” 
asked Delia, glancing timidly in her 
mother’s grave face. 

You may take the one I wear to 
wash baby in. Tie it around your 
neck.” The lady did not smile nor 
take her eyes from her work. 


BLOWING BUBBLES. 


71 


Nurse soon came in, and, setting 
Blanche on the floor with her basket 
of toys, mixed the suds, and placed 
the bowl on the table. Delia blew a 
large bubble, and threw it toward her 
sister, laughing ; but nobody took any 
notice. Nurse had gone to finish her 
morning work ; baby was pulling the 
legs from a pasteboard doll ; and 
mamma never looked up. 

Usually, blowing soap bubbles was 
merry business. The child laughed 
and shouted with pleasure as the rays 
of light fell on her bubble, rendering 
it so beautiful ; or she would exclaim 
in sorrow that it broke to pieces so 
quickly. Now it was dull work. She 
blew one after another without speak- 
ing, and let them fall back into the 
water. Then she began to wish her 


72 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

mamma would talk out loud what 
she was thinking of. At last she 
could bear it no longer, and turning 
round her forehead drawn up with 
anxiety, she said : 

“ Mamma, have I been naughty to 
Nancy ? ” 

“ Your own conscience can tell you 
that, Delia. 

The child did not wish to talk 
about conscience. Her’s was prick- 
ing her a good deal, so she turned to 
the soap bubbles again. Mrs. Gibbs 
sighed and went on with her sewing. 

The door bell rang, presently, and 
the postman left some letters. 

^^Lay them on the table. Nurse,” 
said mamma. I can’t attend to 
them at present.” 

Oh dear ! ” Delia said half aloud, 



“ Mamma, have I been naughty to Nancy ? ” Page 72 






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BLOWING BUBBLES. 


73 


I can’t bear to play with bubbles, 
they break so quick. She stopped 
again and again to gaze in her mam- 
ma’s face. Once she thought she 
saw a tear standing in her eye. At 
length she could endure the pricks of 
conscience no longer, and running 
to her mamma, buried her head in 
the lady’s lap. 

I’m awful sorry,” she burst out. 

I wish I hadn’t spoken so to Nancy. 
I’ll try to be good, mamma. Do talk 
to me about it, mamma. I can’t bear 
to have you look so sorry.” 

I can’t help looking sorry, Delia, 
when I think how you have deceived 
me again, and so soon after you prom- 
ised. What can I do to make you 
remember ? ” Tears of sorrow rolled 
down the lady’s cheeks. 


74 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

Don’t, mamma ! don’t cry for 
me,” exclaimed the child, seizing 
mamma’s hand and kissing it passion- 
ately. I’ll ask God again to make 
me a good girl. May I now ? ” 

She kneeled, laying her head in 
her mother’s lap, and prayed as well 
as her sobs would allow, that God 
would help her speak the truth and 
not talk unkindly to Nancy any 
more. 

Can you think of anything else 
you ought to do ? ” asked mamma, 
when she arose. 

Delia darted from the room with- 
out stopping to answer. She was 
gone several minutes, and then ap- ~ 
peared with a radiant tace. 

See, see ! Isn’t Nancy kind ? 
See my gingerbread doll ; and Nurse 


BLOWING BUBBLES. . 75 

is bringing one for baby.’’ Nancy 
had just baked them in the oven. 

Did you say anything to Nancy, 
my dear ? ” 

Yes, mamma. I told her I was 
sorry ; and I had asked God to help 
me not do so any more. And, mam- 
ma, she says that stuff you put on her 
face, has done her a heat of good.” 

A heap of good, I think she said,” 
added the lady, smiling. 

She’s real pleasant now, mamma.” 
Then seeing the bowl of suds still on 
the table, she said : 

I guess I’ll blow some more bub- 
bles ; wouldn’t you ? ” 

“ Yes, Delia, I think you will enjoy 
your pipe now ; but I want to say 
one thing first. Do you recollect 
that pretty doll dressed in blue silk. 


76 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

we saw in the shop window the other 
day?" 

Yes, indeed, mamma." 

When you have been perfectly 
truthful for one whole month, and for 
the same length of time have not 
carried tales from one to another, I 
will purchase it for you." 

Oh, mamma ! " cried Delia, em- 
bracing her. ‘^I’ll begin right off. 
Oh, I do hope I sh’an’t forget." 

“ Perhaps I can help you, my dear, 
ril tie a little string of silk around 
your finger. Whenever you look at 
it, remember these words: ^^Thou, 
God, seest me." 


UNEXPECTED HELP. 


77 


CHAPTER IX. 

UNEXPECTED HELP. 

Neither Mr. nor Mrs. Gibbs bad 
forgotten the kind police-man who 
brought home dear little Blanche. 
The very next week after she was 
lost, Mrs. Gibbs, taking Delia with 
her, set out for the street and number 
written on the card. They found the 
family occupied a cheap tenement 
over a shoe store. Mrs. Granby was 
sewing on an overcoat as they enter- 
ed. In the corner by the front win- 
dow, a young man with a very high 
forehead and a pale face sat bending 
over a sheet of paper spread on the 


78 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


table before him. Another boy was 
repairing a cane seat chair. All were 
busily employed, while the apart- 
ment, though poor and plainly fur- 
nished, was neat as hands could make 
it. 

As soon as the lady mentioned her 
name, Mrs. Granby said with a smile : 

I remember it. It’s the place 
James,” turning to the youth by the 
window, where your father carried 
the lost baby.” 

How many children have you, 
Mrs. Granby?” 

We have five : these two boys and 
three girls, all in school now. It’s 
a great blessing, ma’am, to live in 
a city like this where there are so 
many good schools, free to every 


one. 


UNEXPECTED HELP. 


79 


indeed. Does your son en- 
joy good health ? ” 

He's been lame from his birth,” 
answered the mother with a sigh. 

don't know though," she added 
with a smile, what we should do 
without him. He's such a help to 
his sisters and a comfort to us all." 

May I look at your drawing ? " 
inquired the visitor, approaching the 
table. 

I’m learning to be an architect," 
said James, in a sweet, patient voice. 

This is the ground floor of a cottage. 
I have a sketch of the front view. 
Eddy, will you bring my portfolio 
from the closet ? " 

It will be very pretty," said the 
lady. You could shade it better if 
you had soft pencils. I see your 


80 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

place is on the scale of four feet to an 
inch, what do you measure with ? 

James blushed, as he answered 
My tools are very imperfect. Fath- 
er borrowed a rule for me, and I 
made one by it. It answers very 
well, though.” 

“Do you ever go out, James ? ” 

“ Oh, yes ! I try to go every day. 
I always go on Sunday, as far as the 
Corner Church.” 

“ Did you ever visit the Studio 
Buildings, where classes of pupils are 
constantly taking lessons? ” 

“ No, ma’am. I never heard of 
such a place till a few weeks ago.” 

“ You ought to go there. The 
only difficulty that I can foresee is the 
going up three flights of stairs. Do 
you think you could endure that ? ” 


UNEXPECTED HELP. 


81 


I’d creep up for the pleasure of 
being there/’ said James, his pale 
face becoming really beautiful with 
enthusiasm. The trouble with me 
is,” he added, growing earnest with 
his subject, I have visions of beau- 
ty ; but I don’t know how to put 
them on paper.” 

You shall be taught,” said the 
lady, laying her hand kindly on his 
shoulder. Then turning to the moth- 
er, she added, Ever since your hus- 
band found our baby for us, we have 
wished to do something for him. I 
know Mr. Gibbs will gladly pay for 
two quarters at the Studio, and here 
are ten dollars to purchase a case of 
drawing instruments and pencils.” 

Oh, Mrs. Gibbs ! ” was all the 
poor boy could say. He bent his 
6 


82 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 

head down for a moment on the table 
before him ; but not quite in time to 
prevent the visitor from seeing a tear 
glisten in his blue eye. 

It’s too much, ma’am,” answered 
the woman. Mr. Granby only did 
what was his duty. He never 
thought of a reward.” 

But none the less are we obliged 
for his prompt action,” responded Mrs. 
Gibbs with a smile. 

A glance at the boy’s clothes show- 
ed her that though clean and whole, 
they were almost threadbare. 
see you are a tailoress, Mrs. Granby,” 
the lady went on. I have a suit at 
home which my husband threw by, 
on account of the bad fit. I dare 
say you could alter the coat to suit 
James. It is very nice tricot.” 


UNEXPECTED HELP. 


83 


Indeed, ma’am, I can’t thank you 
enough. While you were talking of 
James learning to draw at the Studio, 
I was trying to contrive how we 
would manage about clothes. Yes, 
ma’am. I’ll sit up nights to fit them 
for him, and be grateful to you all 
my life. Eddy shall go for them 
whenever you say.” 

^^Let me think a moment,” said 
Mrs. Gibbs. I’ll ask my husband 
to procure the tickets to-morrow morn- 
ing. Let him come to-morrow noon, 
and I’ll have both clothes and tickets 
ready for him. Then he can com- 
mence as soon as you have prepared 
the coat.” 


84 GEM OF TEUTHFULNESS. 


CHAPTER X. 

THE LITTLE STRANGER. 

Both Mrs. Gibbs and her husband 
would have felt abundantly repaid for 
all the trouble and expense they had 
incurred could they a few hours later 
have glanced into the* room I have 
described. Police officer Granby, now 
off his beat, was indulging himself 
with a cup of tea, while he listened 
with intense interest to the account 
of the lady’s visit. The three daugh- 
ters, Ella, Maria, and Jane, were each 
diligently employed with knitting or 
sewing. Eddy, having finished his 
chair, only waited to get his father’s 


THE LITTLE STRANGER. 85 


attention in order to exhibit his work. 
He was employed in a chair factory 
a part of the time, indeed, during all 
the hours that he was not in school, 
and in this way earned enough to 
pay for his clothes. 

Mrs. Granb}^ who sat at the same 
table with her husband, so that one 
lamp would light them both, was put- 
ting the finishing stitches to her over- 
coat, giving the work an occasional 
shake and a glance of approbation, 
even in the midst of talking and 
hearing what was said. 

^^Oh, father!’’ said James in his 
low, sweet voice, I’m almost afraid 
it is a dream. Doesn’t it seem too 
good to be true ? Only think, father, 
with two quarters of instruction I shall 
be able to get a place as assistant to 


86 GEM OF TKUTHFULNESS. 

a regular architect. Then I’ll pay 
you for my board, and mother shall 
have a little rest. ’Twould be such a 
luxury, mother, to see you sitting 
with your hands folded just one hour. 

Ha ! ha ! ha ! wife, I can’t imag- 
ine you so. I should look into the 
room and think I’d mistaken the 
house; ha! ha! ha! Well, really 
the good news puts me in the best of 
spirits. I thought when I came in that 
it was rather a discouraging world; 
but it seems far enough from that 
now.” 

Do you think you could go to the 
Studio Buildings with me, father ? ” 
inquired James. ^^I mean the first 
time. I might get into the wrong 
place. I’m so unused to going about.’' 

^^YeS; I’ll contrive it somehow.” 


THE LITTLE STRANGER. 87 


There’s a good many splendid 
people in the world/’ said Ella. I’m 
sure Mrs. Gibbs is one. I wish I 
could see her.” 

She’s one in a thousand/’ echoed 
her father. I saw that when I car- 
ried the baby home. Take one time 
with another the p’lice have a pretty 
fair chance to learn character. I’ve 
changed my views considerably since 
I’ve been in the service.” 

But we must leave number nine- 
teen Barclay street, up stairs, and re- 
turn to poor Mary Regan. 

Since the interview with Mrs. Gibbs, 
she had been much more happy ; in- 
deed, at times such a blessed peace 
stole over her, quieting every fear of 
the future, such a sense of sins forgiv- 
en, that she scarcely knew how to 


88 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

contain her joy. There were times, 
too, when the recollection of her false- 
hood, and all the sad consequences 
rushed over her mind, and caused her 
tears to flow. She had loved Michael 
O'Shane with all the fervor of a girl's 
first love; and now he had gone 
without a farewell word or token. 

Oh, Mick, poor Mick ! we might 
have been so happy if Td only tould 
the truth. Ye'd have been on yer 
guard thin against Thomas ; and he 
could never have struck the blow 
which laid ye senseless on the ground. 
Then Td never have left ye, my poor 
darlint ; and if ye was called away, 
Td have been by yer side, and held 
yer dear hand while ye left yer last 
breath behind ye. Oh, my poor heart 
that never will be done aching! Sure 


THE LITTLE STRANGER. 89 


and if every lie that was tould work- 
ed such mischief as my lie did, the 
wurld itself would go mad with grief.’ ^ 

One night after a visit from Tom 
Maloon, Mary thought she would re- 
turn to Ireland, but, after talking 
with Nancy, concluded to remain in 
America for a year or two. She grad- 
ually became accustomed to the 
thought of Michael laid to rest under 
the yew trees in the old church-yard 
at home ; and though she often lay 
awake, thinking of him, time with its 
healing wings soothed the poignancy 
of her grief. 

Month after month flew by, until 
Spring with its soft breezes came again. 
Blanche was not the baby now. In 
the crib near mamma’s bed lay a little 
soft thing, that moved and breathed, 


90 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


slept and stretched its tiny limbs and 
occasionally cried, in a manner most 
wonderful to Blanche. 

From morning to night her aston- 
ishment and curiosity could not be 
satisfied. 

See bruver. See bruver more. 
See bruver ’gain,” was her constant 
cry when out of the room. When 
permitted to stand by the nurse 
washing or dressing the little crea- 
ture, she generally gazed in dumb 
surprise at the supple limbs, the wee — 
wee toes, the closely shut hands, the 
shell-shaped ears, the bald head. At 
last she began to wish to touch as 
well as to look at this strange visitor. 

Pretty, pretty eyes ! ” she ex- 
claimed, putting her taper finger di- 
rectly into the organ of vision. 


THE LITTLE STRANGEK. 91 


^^Blanche got eye too,” and then her 
finger went in her own. 

Delia, who I am glad to say had 
become the happy possessor of the doll 
with a blue dress, now went to school, 
daily. During the winter months 
she had greatly improved. After 
twice forfeiting the coveted doll by 
equivocation, if not by absolute lying, 
she learned to stop and think before 
she spoke. She no longer talked 
about little lies, her mamma having 
convinced her that in the sight of 
God no lie is of little consequence. 

Her treatment of Nancy and her 
conduct in the kitchen can be imagin- 
ed from the circumstance that in the 
month of May, when mamma is able 
to be about, Nancy’s sister is coming 
to take her place for a month while 


92 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

she, accompanied by Delia, is going 
home to her father’s farm, to rest. In 
the meantime Delia’s delight in her 
little brother, and her joy in the 
thought of visiting the country, make 
it easy for her to practise her good 
resolutions, while her mamma is con- 
fined to her chamber. 


Mary’s joy. 


93 


CHAPTER XI. 

Mary’s joy. 

I don’t think I can ever go home 
to Ireland, ma’am,” said Mary one 
morning, as she sat with baby in her 
lap. I couldn’t leave him,” kissing 
the little dumpling of a hand. I 
never loved a baby so much before.” 

Shall I tell you why. Nurse ? ” 

Yes, ma’am.” 

Because he came while your 
heart was longing for something to 
love and pet in the place of your lost 
Michael. I’ve seen how the little one 
comforted you. I’ve watched your 
smile coming oftener and oftener. 


94 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

Now he’s thirteen weeks old and see 
how well he knows you.” 

Little darlint ! I shall be sorry 
when he’s too big to ride in me arms. 
I love to take him so best,” pressing 
him lovingly to her bosom. 

At this moment the door opened 
and Sally, Nancy’s sister, came in. 

There’s a young man below, 
wants to see Miss Regan,” she said. 

Is he tall and straight, with nice 
black eyes ? ” asked Nurse smiling. 

Yes, he’s an uncommonly pretty 
young man, answered Sally, stopping 
a moment to snap her fingers at baby, 
and make him stare at her. 

^^It’s Patrick Maloon,” said Mary 
laughing ; but he’s growing very 
polite with his ‘ Miss Regan,’ and 
sich like. Shall I lay baby in his 


mart's joy. 


95 


crib, ma'am ? he's as good as a kit- 
ten." 

Sally stopped a moment to ask a 
question about dinner, when they 
heard from the kitchen a dreadful 
scream, followed by a heavy fall and 
a cry for help. 

Both Mrs. Gibbs and Sally ran 
quickly below, Sally catching up 
Blanche who was pulling her dress. 
Prostrate on the floor lay poor Mary 
in a dead swoon, while a young man 
bent over her calling her by the most 
endearing names. 

Mary, my own darling, what does 
it mean? Does the sight of your 
own Mick strike ye dead ? Mary ! 
Mary ! what for should ye faint when 
I’ve crossed the seas to bring ye 
home ? " 


96 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

Mrs. Gibbs, comprehended the 
whole scene at a glance. Instead of 
being her cousin Patrick as she had 
supposed, the visitor was Michael 
O’Shane whom she thought lying in 
his grave. 

Only waiting to dash cold water in 
Mary’s face, Mrs. Gibbs asked : 

Is your name Michael O’Shane ? ” 
Yes, mistress, I landed from the 
ship Malta an hour ago.” 

Poor Mary heard from a cousin 
that you were dead. She gave me 
an account of the funeral to read, cut 
from a Derry paper.” 

That was me father, mistress, me 
good, ould father. Mary ! Mary ! it’s 
yer own Michael alive, and only wait- 
ing for yees to welcome him, to be 
the happiest man out of ould Ireland.” 


Mary’s joy. 


97 


The poor girl gasped, and presently 
opened her eyes to fix them on her 
lover with a wild stare. 

Speak to her. Lift her up,” said 
her mistress. 

Michael raised her head, laying it 
on his arm; but her eyes did not 
move from his face. There was such 
a look of terror in them that the lady 
became anxious. 

She went to the girl, took her hand 
which was limp, and cold, and tried 
to explain. 

Mary, my good Mary. Don’t you 
know Michael, your friend Michael, 
from Derry ? ” 

The girl did not turn her head or 
seem to hear. 

Run and get the bottle of ammo- 
nia on my bureau, Sally,” said her 


98 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


mistress, now becoming thoroughly 
alarmed. 

While she was gone, Mary gave 
several long gasps and then slowly 
raised herself to her feet. 

Can't you give yer own Michael 
a word of welcome ? " asked the 
young man, vainly trying to steady 
his voice. 

Mary, after one more long glance 
threw herself into his outstretched 
arms, tears of joy and gratitude rain- 
ing down her cheeks. 

Is it come back from the grave, 
ye are, to forgive me?" she asked 
sobbing. 

Mrs. Gibbs motioned to Sally to 
take Blanche up stairs and immedi- 
ately followed to the chamber. She 
knew Mary would at once wish to 


Mary’s joy. 


99 


relieve her conscience of the lie, 
which had so long burdened it. 

It’s early yet/’ she said to Sally, 
who was anxious about the dinner. 

Mr. Gibbs and I will readily go 
without a dessert on such an occasion 
as this, and the steak can be cooked 
in a few minutes.” 

I suppose we’ll have to give Ma- 
ry up,” answered Sally, presently. 

I’ll be sorry enough on Nancy’s ac- 
count, for since she got over crying 
nights, mourning about something 
she says she ought to have confessed 
to Michael, Nancy says she’s the nic- 
est sort of a girl to have about. Smil- 
ing or cross, it’s all the same to her. 
She has a pleasant word which makes 
you ashamed to tease her.” 

Yes, Nancy, and I shall miss her 


100 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

greatly, and I suspect baby will 
too ; but we will try not to be selfish. 
Mary is a good girl ; and I shall be 
delighted to see her happy. ’’ 


REWARD OF TRUTH. 


101 


CHAPTER XII. 

REWARD OF TRUTH. 

It was very evident that the 
friends took no note of time, for half 
an hour, then an hour passed, and 
still nothing was seen of Mary. At 
last, however, just as Sally’s patience 
was entirely exhausted, the young 
girl came running up stairs, her eyes 
sparkling with happiness, and a pret- 
ty tint of rose on either cheek. 

I’m afraid baby’s wanted me. 
Oh, Mrs. Gibbs, it all came so sudden ; 
and I’m so happy, I quite forgot 
every thing ! I’ve told Michael all 
about the darlint. Will you please. 


102 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

ma’am, let me take him down and 
show him ? ” 

Certainly, Mary. Take that em- 
broidered blanket from the under 
drawer. I’m glad he looks so sweet 
and clean. He must do his nurse 
credit, you know.” 

The instant Sally’s back was turn- 
ed, Mary whispered : 

‘^I’ve told him, ma’am, and he’s 
forgiven me. Oh, ma’am, such a 
load is gone ! If I never saw him 
again, I’d be so thankful I’d told him. 
Come, baby darlint. Oh, Mrs. Gibbs, 
may Blanche go too ? Michael 
knows how I lost her.” 

I’ll lead her down presently,” 
said mamma. Michael must stay 
and have dinner.” 

Baby really seemed to understand 


REWARD OF TRUTH. 


103 


that the tall man with a heavy, black 
beard, was Mary’s friend. He smiled 
his loveliest smile when he chuckled 
him under the chin, and cooed one of 
his longest stories to Mary’s exquisite 
delight. He even allowed Mick to 
hold him in his strong arms, which he 
did as naturally as though his whole 
life haxl been spent in the business. 

He was swaying him about, his 
face radiant with pleasure, Mary and 
even Sally, laughing heartily; baby 
catching his breath to coo again, 
when mamma and Blanche joined the 
merry group. 

^^This is Michael, ma’am,” said 
Mary, blushing crimson. 

Michael and I are already ac- 
quainted,” said Mrs. Gibbs, holding 
out her hand, cordially. And baby 


104 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

seems quite acquainted, too. You 
are used to babies, I think, Michael.’' 

I’m the oldest of ten, ma’am,” 
was the laughing reply. 

Mary took baby, saying, You 

must speak to Blanche, now.” 

The little girl was shy at first, but 
presently gave him her hand, with 
the air of a princess. 

In five minutes, however, he had 
won her entirely. He made rabbits 
of his hands, putting one finger into 
the mouth for a bone, and then pre- 
tending to choke. 

Blanche laughed and continually^’ 
cried : 

More. Blanche want more dog.” 

Altogether, Michael made a very 
happy impression. He staid to din- 
ner^ and in the afternoon went back 


REWARD OF TRUTH. 105 

to the vessel, to get off his chests of 
clothing. 

In the evening he had a long talk 
with Mr. Gibbs, who had for some 
months been intending to build a 
dining-room on the rear of the par- 
lors, the end being finished in one 
large bow. 

The gentleman perceived that the 
young carpenter talked as though he 
understood his business, and learning 
from him, that he could also draw a 
framing plan, he gave encouragement 
that if it was satisfactory, Michael 
should take the job. 

You see, ma'am,” said Mary, 
Michael asked nae ; would I . rather 
stay in Ameriky ; or would I go home 
to ould Ireland ? and when I said 
how kind ye’d been to me in me trou- 


106 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 

ble ; and how ye tould me where to 
go for peace when me heart was 
breaking, he agreed with me ’twoiild 
be hard going away. He’s deter- 
mined to make a name for himself 
here, ma’am, as he did in Derry, and 
until that is done, we’re to contint 
ourselves as we are. I’m sure, ma’am, 
since Michael knows how T desave d 
him and has forgiven me, I’d be con- 
tint forever; so I would.” 

The plan of the young carpenter 
proved so satisfactory, that Mr. Gibbs 
closed a contract with him to complete 
the job. In the course of the next six 
months, he sent home for two of his 
brothers, one of whom was a mason^ 
and the other a carpenter. The name 
of O’Shane, soon became a guarantee 
for the most finished workmanship; 


REWARD OF TRUTH. 


107 


and the young firm of O’Shane 
Brothers,” had as much employment 
as they desired. 

Mary remained with her mistress 
until baby was able to walk, and call 
her by name ; then she went to a 
pretty house of her own, her hus- 
band’s brothers boarding with her. 

Oh, ma’am! ” cried Mary, weeping 
over her mistress’s hand as she grasp- 
ed it to say good-by, ^^It’s yerselfl 
have to thank. Ye taught me my 
duty to God ; ye taught me the sin of 
lying. Sure, ma’am. I’ll never lay 
me head down to sleep till I ask God 
to bless every one belonging to ye.” 

Delia, now a young Miss of eight 
years, is a great comfort to her parents, 
well rewarding them for all their cares 
and anxious efforts to train her aright. 


108 GEM OF TRUTHFULNESS. 


She is remarkably truthful and con- 
scientious. Even in her plays with 
her sister she proves that the lessons 
and prayers of her Christian mother 
have taken root, and are answered, 
yielding a most pleasing harvest. 

Mrs. Gibbs is greatly encouraged 
by this happy result, and with her 
younger children around her, never 
forgets the promise of her heavenly 
Father ; “ Train up a child in the way 
he should go ; and when he is old he 
will not depart from it.'’ Upon each 
of their tender minds she strives to 
impress these facts. God is a being 

whose truth endureth to all genera- 
tions." He says in his holy word : 

The lip of truth shall be established 
forever ; but a lying tongue is but for 
a moment : " Lying lips are an 


PvEWAED OF TRUTH. 


109 


abominatipn to the Lord ; but they 
that deal truly are his delight : ” He 
that speaketh lies, shall perish.’' 




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